Boat crash victim’s family dismayed as driver George Pino found not guilty

George Pino, a prominent Florida real estate broker, was found not guilty Monday by a Miami jury of manslaughter and felony vessel homicide in the Sept. 4, 2022 boat crash that killed 17-year-old Luciana Fernandez and permanently disabled another teenager. The crash occurred during a birthday party celebration on a 29-foot vessel in Biscayne Bay; investigators found 61 empty bottles and cans aboard, though Pino was never subjected to a breath test.

The family of Katerina Puig, now 21, who suffered severe head injuries, expressed dismay at the acquittal, criticizing what they called a flawed investigation. Puig's parents stated they believe Pino should have been held accountable for reckless vessel operation. Pino's defense maintained the incident was a tragic accident, citing eyewitness testimony that contradicted any signs of impairment or reckless behavior.